Mediterranean Dreams

We return to the catamaran each night for the entire trip, so you only need to unpack once. With 2 riding distances to choose from each day, plus an optional day off, this trip is flexible and can accommodate different levels of riders.

All rides start with a climb from sea level on asphalt, gravel or double- track trails and descents are mostly singletrack. Stronger groups will ride singletrack descents on surfaces that are dry with fixed and loose rock gardens and rocky sections, sometimes flowy, on old hiking paths. Less-technical groups often descend on doubletrack and gravel roads. Excluding the first ride, each day will feature two guided ride distances with different technical terrain. The riding on the Dalmatian Islands is generally rocky, but there will also be some buffed sections.

15-39km, 4-6 hours

No, just your day pack with essentials. Your gear stays on the boat for the entire trip.

Know your limits and ride within them. Ride confidently but conservatively. Do not be ashamed to walk a section that makes you uncomfortable.

Depending on availability, we’ll be enjoying the Fountaine Pajot Saba 50 or Aura 51 catamaran. The ship features four en-suite guest cabins with queen-sized beds and two additional cabins for the skipper and the guide. The boat includes a spacious saloon and covered decks. Breakfasts and snacks are prepared on board.

All breakfasts and 1 dinner. Fruit and on-board snacks included.

Breakfasts and snacks on the catamaran are prepared by our guides, and include fresh fruit, hot items and specialty coffees. Guests can bring their own beer, wine and personal drinks as they wish. Local cuisine features a variety of fresh seafood, olive oil, green vegetables, and risotto.

There are no washing machines on the catamaran – nor would there be time to visit laundry facilities during the trip. Most riders wash some clothes by hand and hang them outside of cabins on clothes line provided.

It is imperative when signing up for one of our trips that you are confident that your riding ability matches the required riding ability for the trip, regardless if it’s an eMTB or MTB trip. If you have the required ability level for the trip but little (or no) experience on an eMTB this is fine, our guides will give you tips to help you learn to ride these assist-bikes. They are intuitive and you will be a pro within a few days. Read more about the benefits of eMTBs in one of our Trail Tales.

eMTB’s generally come in two battery sizes, sub-400 Wh and 750 Wh (or above). On our trips we utilise the bigger battery bikes which allow riders to easily ride four to six hours in higher-assist modes. Riders will carry their chargers daily, if needed we will charge batteries over lunch to further ensure that riders do not run out of juice. Note that the bigger battery bikes have greater torque and make the bikes heavier.

As it is with any bike on any ride, a personal bike or rental bike, a short ride or long ride – mechanical issues can, and will, occur. As it has been for 20+ years of running our trips we are aware of this possibility and prepared to deal with issues if needed. We help riders to avoid mechanicals by performing bike checks and with general bike care. Note that mechanicals and breakdowns are at your cost (including potential itinerary interruptions or changes), on rental eMTB’s or personal MTB’s.

We source the best rental bikes available in each region through our partner bike shops. We ensure that rental bikes are inspected, well-maintained and have appropriate tires, brakes and extra parts. We know that quality bikes and components are paramount to a good experience. Note that a rental bike will never be as comfortable as one’s personal bike, riders must expect some adjustment and compromise when riding the rental bikes. For some destinations, there is the option to upgrade to a high-performance eMTB.

Upon registration for your trip you will be asked to input your height, weight (for suspension set up) and preferred frame size. We will then communicate the bike brand, model and specs to you. Flat pedals are included on bikes, if you ride clip pedals, you are required to bring your own pedals. Bikes also include a set of brake pads, tire levers, a multi-tool and tubes. It is suggested to bring your own pump and specific tools. It is also suggested to bring your own saddle for added comfort and related riding gear: helmet, globes, knee pads, eye protection, hydration bag, etc.

In the majority of countries that we run our trips protection insurance is not available. If it is available we will communicate this to you. Riders are 100% responsible for all damages to rental bikes – you must inspect your bike for existing damages (take photos) before the first ride. If damages occur while riding the rental bike we will communicate the details and cost to you upon completion of the trip. Once agreed upon your credit card on file will be used to cover cost of damages from the bike shop where bike was rented from.

eMTBs have four or five assist modes (from eco to turbo). On most days, we ride in the middle level to ensure that we are conserving battery. As on any bike, eMTBs perform best when pedalling at a consistent and relatively fast cadence (70-90 RPMs). They are heavier than regular bikes, which takes some adjustment, as the weight is often low on the bike, which adds stability in loose rocks and increased speeds. Riders must look further ahead when riding e-bikes and change gears well in advance (while light pedalling). With the pedal-assist, there is added stress on the drivetrain, and it is suggested to lower saddle height slightly and move weight forward more than usual on steeper climbing sections. For more information, check out one of our Trail Tales. 

With the exception of a few trips (Treasure Islands and Mediterranean Dreams) we try to avoid mixing e-bikes and acoustic mountain bikes on our trips. However, on private departures, we are able to host a mixed group to help groups ride together. Our policy with mixed groups is that the pace of the ride follows acoustic riders, and e-bikers will have a “cruisier” experience and must be patient and expect to wait at times.

Depending on the time of the year you visit Croatia, it can be hot for riding. The best times to visit are mid-May through the end of June and September through mid-October. There can be rain, but it’s minimal.

Croatia uses the Euro. ATMs are readily available upon arrival at the Split Airport, in Trogir and most overnight ports. Credit cards are accepted only in larger restaurants and stores. Although it is helpful to bring a credit card along for emergencies, don’t count on using it for all purchases.

Tipping in Croatia is standard and no different than North America or other destinations with a gratuity culture – typically 10 to 15% for a service. Gratuities for your Big Mountain guides may be given at your discretion in response to their professionalism and leadership throughout the week. We suggest 5-10% of the trip price per individual guest to be divided among your guiding team as a tipping standard.